You might not have realized that a common household condiment could double as a handy cleaning agent.
Ketchup, typically found in almost every kitchen, has some surprising cleaning uses due to its acidic properties. From polishing brass to removing hard-to-clean stains on kitchen appliances, the cleaning powers of ketchup can easily become your secret weapon in keeping your home spotless.
The primary ingredients in ketchup — particularly vinegar and citric acid — give it its cleaning strength.
I’m sharing my favorite 14 mind blowing cleaning hacks using ketchup – an item that’s probably already sitting in your fridge!
Discover the surprising cleaning power of ketchup! Its acidity is perfect for removing dirt and grime from stainless steel, brass, and even your car’s exterior.
Let’s uncover the many ways this versatile condiment can assist with your household chores.
So, why not take advantage of your ketchup’s hidden potential? With a little creativity and know-how, you can turn this ordinary condiment into an extraordinary cleaning assistant.
You might even find yourself reaching for that bottle of ketchup more often, not just for your fries, but for some surprising cleaning hacks around your home!
Key Takeaways:
- Ketchup’s acidic properties make it a versatile cleaning agent.
- It can be used to tackle dirt and grime on a variety of surfaces, including household items and automobiles.
- Incorporating ketchup into your cleaning routine can save time and money while providing effective results.
*This post contains affiliate links. Full disclosure here.
Cleaning Hacks Using Ketchup (That you may not know)
Discover the surprising cleaning abilities of ketchup! This household staple can be used to tackle tough stains and dirt on various surfaces.
The secret lies in its special blend of citric and acetic acids, which work together to penetrate and loosen grime. Say goodbye to stubborn dirt with the power of ketchup!
This makes it easier for you to scrub away build-up and reveal the shiny, clean surface underneath. Additionally, ketchup’s thick consistency helps it to adhere to surfaces, giving the acids more time to work their magic.
So what does ketchup clean?
Ketchup works particularly well at cleaning metals such as brass, copper, and stainless steel. For example, using ketchup on your burnt-on pots and pans can help remove stubborn black and brown coatings. It also works really well to clean appliances and utensils.
Experience the cleaning power of ketchup! It’s as simple as applying this condiment to the surface, giving it a few minutes to work its magic, and then scrubbing and rinsing. Prepare to be amazed as ketchup effortlessly transforms your dirty surfaces, leaving them gleaming like new.
Don’t overlook the potential of ketchup for all your tough cleaning jobs at home. This is why I always recommend having several ketchup bottles sitting in your pantry!
Kitchen Cleaning Hacks Using Ketchup
#1 Removing burnt food stains
You might be surprised to learn that ketchup can help you clean burnt pans. Thanks to its citric and acetic acid content, applying a few drops of ketchup on your burnt pans helps release any stubborn food residues.
Simply cover the pan or the cookware that has the burnt-on food with tomato ketchup (be generous)and let the ketchup get to work.
Leave it overnight, so the ketchup can get to work, and break down the burn stuck on food.
In the morning, you will be able to wash the dish like you normally would, you’ll probably find your pan looking cleaner and shinier than before.
#2 How to Clean Brass or Copper Using Ketchup
There are so many health benefits associated with copper, so most of us have some type of copper in our home, maybe its bakeware, or utensils.
Cleaning brass with ketchup is surprisingly effective and easy to get your doorknobs, pans, and other brass items shiny again.
Before you start, ensure that your brass item is free of dirt or grime; I recommend wiping it down with a wet cloth.
Your brass items might be in need of some polishing. Ketchup’s acidic properties can help you with that.
For this friendly cleaning hack, coat the brass surface with ketchup, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then use a soft cloth or toothbrush to gently scrub away any tarnish. Rinse well, and your brass items will look good as new.
The ketchup’s acidity will help dissolve any tarnish or corrosion on the metal and leave it looking clean and polished. Be sure to rinse off all excess ketchup with another damp cloth afterward.
Rinse thoroughly and enjoy your shiny copperware. Say goodbye to dull and hello to gleaming copper!
Corrosion is a common problem with copper. It will help if you clean your copper cookware with a safe cleaner, and you won’t find a better answer than ketchup.
That’s why you will always find several ketchup bottles in my pantry!
Remember to use these ketchup hacks to keep your kitchen items clean and shiny. Enjoy your cleaner kitchen with this unexpected cleaning helper!
#3 How to clean stained tupperware
Got stubborn stains on your plastic Tupperware? I hate when I see stains on my tupperware, I’m betting you do too.
Try this.
Squeeze a good amount of ketchup onto the stained areas, then leave it for an hour or so. Then scrub using a soft cloth. Rinse well and watch those stains disappear.
#4 Clean stainless steel
Just like copper, stainless steel appliances and utensils will and probably will tarnish at some point. You can either prevent it from happening or make sure it doesn’t happen. Using ketchup as a cleaning product is all you need.
You’ll be cleaning the same way you do with copper. Make sure the stainless steel surface is covered in ketchup. Wipe it off with a damp cloth. Using another cloth, repeat the process. Alternatively, you could use a paper towel.
#5 Cleaning metal with ketchup
Get rid of tarnish and grime on metal surfaces effortlessly with ketchup!
Whether it’s copper, brass, or stainless steel, just apply a dab of ketchup on a cloth or sponge and gently rub the surface in circles. Give it a good rinse and dry with a soft cloth to unveil a sparkling clean finish.
Ketchup for Bathroom Cleaning
Discover the surprising cleaning powers of ketchup for your bathroom! Not only is it a delicious condiment, but its natural acidity and gentle abrasiveness can effortlessly conquer tough bathroom cleaning tasks.
#6 Shiny faucets
Get shiny faucets in no time with this unexpected remedy – ketchup!
Just apply a thin layer of ketchup to your faucets, wait for 30 minutes, then rinse and wipe clean.
Say goodbye to dull faucets and hello to a brand-new shine, all thanks to the incredible power of ketchup.
#7 Rust stains
Say goodbye to unsightly rust spots marks on your bathroom fixtures with ……..ketchup!
Nope, I’m not kidding. Simply apply a generous layer of ketchup to the affected areas, rub it in and let it work its magic for just 30 minutes.
After the time has passed, use a soft-bristled scrub brush to gently clean the area. Rinse well and buff dry with a clean cloth. You’ll see that the rust marks have disappeared, and your bathroom fixtures will look fresh and clean.
#8 Cleaning the toilet
Ketchup is an excellent condiment to eliminate unpleasant odors in the bathroom. It works because vinegar, which is a key ingredient in ketchup, is a strong cleaning agent and deodorizer.
The acidity of the vinegar helps break down tough stains and bacteria that can cause bad smells.
I know this sounds weird but you have to trust me on this
To use ketchup to clean a toilet, squeeze about 1/4 cup of ketchup into the bowl and swish it around with a toilet brush. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before you flush.
Flushing twice will help remove any remaining residue from the bowl. You’ll be left with a pleasant smell that masks any odors from urine or other unsanitary sources.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to keep your bathroom clean without spending big bucks on expensive products, then giving this ketchup hack a try could be the cleaning product you’ve been searching for!
Automobile Cleaning With Ketchup
I bet you didn’t know that ketchup is not only a tasty condiment but also a handy cleaning agent. In this section, we will explore some interesting ways to use ketchup for automobile cleaning.
#9 Cleaning Car Alloys
It may be difficult to remove crusted dirt and grime from the exterior alloys of an automobile. Ketchup can be used to remove dirt from your vehicle without having to pay for a monthly vehicle washing.
Apply a layer of the condiment to the grime that has been collected and allow it to remain on for a few minutes. Then rub. To ensure that the ketchup has been completely removed, rinse the area with warm water twice. The result is stunning!
You now look like you have a brand new car.
#10 Bumper shine
Ketchup can help bring back the shine to your car’s bumper.
Apply ketchup to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the surface of your bumper. The acids in the ketchup will work to break down any oxidation and grime.
Wait for a few minutes, then use a clean, damp cloth to remove the ketchup, followed by a dry cloth to wipe away any remaining residue. You’ll notice your bumper sparkling like new.
The same technique can also be used for your car’s hubcaps and grill for an overall refreshed look. Remember to keep the process gentle and brief to avoid overusing ketchup or damaging any parts.
Other Ways To Clean With A Trusty Bottle Of Ketchup
#11 Clean Gardening Equipment
Your gardening equipment can get dirty over time, but ketchup can help you clean it up.
Apply some ketchup to a soft cloth or sponge, and scrub your tools thoroughly. Rinse well and dry.
The acids in the tomato juice can break down dirt and grime, leaving your equipment looking like new.
#12 Get Rid of Dog Smell
ISay goodbye to pet odors in your home with a surprising solution: ketchup!
Thanks to its powerful vinegar content, ketchup acts as a natural cleaning agent and deodorizer. Experience a fresher and cleaner living space for you and your furry friend.
Mix equal parts ketchup and water, and use a cloth or sponge to scrub the area where the odor is the strongest. Rinse and dry.
Remember not to use this on your pet directly.
#13 Clean silver jewelry.
Did you know that when left exposed for a long period of time, silver easily tarnishes (just like copper). As it is exposed to the air frequently, it may gradually blacken, losing its shine.
A thin coating is removed from the silver surface by most silver cleaners to restore its shine.
In the event that these cleaners are used regularly, your jewelry may become damaged and fragile. The more natural method of preventing dullness is to wash them with ketchup and a damp cloth.
#14 Shaving cream alternative
Using ketchup as an alternative to traditional shaving cream is a trend that has been gaining traction recently (not kidding). Sp,e people areeven looking to make the switch because of the variety of benefits that come with using it as a substitute.
For starters, ketchup is much cheaper than traditional shaving creams and gels. It also lasts longer since it doesn’t need to be thrown away after every use as traditional creams do.
Additionally, ketchup contains natural ingredients such as vinegar and tomatoes (like a paste or tomato sauce) which makes it softer on the skin than other products, reducing irritation and redness often caused by traditional methods.
Furthermore, ketchup does not contain synthetics or artificial ingredients like some products do, making it a great option for those looking for a more natural approach to shaving.
Using ketchup as a replacement for shaving cream is easy too! All you need to do is apply an even layer of ketchup over the area you wish to shave, then let sit for five minutes before beginning the process. After this step, use a razor as normal but ensure to use short strokes and rinse off any excess product once finished.
After shaving with ketchup, be sure to moisturize.
#15 Clean stained clothing
Accidentally stained your favorite white shirt?
Say goodbye to stubborn stains with this simple solution: ketchup! Just dab a bit onto the stain, wait 15 minutes, rinse with cold water, and wash as usual. The citric acid in ketchup helps lift the stain, making it easier to remove.
Conclusion
Ketchup is not just a delicious condiment; made from yummy tomatoes and sauce with a delightful taste, any brand can also be used for cleaning. And because ketchup is non-toxic and biodegradable, it is a much safer option than many harsh chemical cleaners.
So next time your kitchen counter needs a touch-up or your silver starts to look dull, reach for a bit of the ketchup stored in your pantry or freezer (it’s shelf life is amazing!). It just may be the cleaner you’ve been looking for to make life a little bit easier. I hope you try some of these cleaning hacks using ketchup, who knew a bottle of red sauce could do so much!
Other Cleaning Articles You May Like:
- Unexpected Uses For Pine-Sol
- How to clean bath toys
- How to wash clothes with poop on them
- The best bedroom cleaning checklist you will need
- How to clean ceiling fans with vinegar
- Things to declutter in your home today
- Quotes about decluttering
- Brilliant 5 minute cleaning tasks that make a huge difference
Grainne Foley
Grainne Foley is a wife and mother of 2 great kids. During her 5 years of full time RV travel, Grainne learned to become very efficient at household chores, in order to make time for family adventures. Now, back in a house, she has continued to create tools and techniques to help others lighten the load of household organization and cleaning.
Leave a Reply